This article summarises an evidence-based estimate of how cardiovascular risk is distributed across major modifiable and non-modifiable pathways in the UK population. Using data from INTERHEART, UK Biobank, Global Burden of Disease 2021, and Mendelian randomisation studies, it shows that approximately 70–80% of coronary heart disease risk is explainable through measurable factors. LDL-cholesterol and visceral adipose tissue each account for roughly one-third of population risk, with additional contributions from blood pressure, smoking, dysglycaemia, and lifestyle. Around 20–30% of risk remains unexplained, reflecting genetics, inflammation, environment, and measurement limitations, highlighting the need for improved phenotyping and targeted prevention strategies.

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